LSS demands national recognition and benefits for Emergency-Era detainees from Punjab
Fazilka (Abohar), June 12, 2025: Social activist Rajesh Gupta, President of the Samaj Sudhar Sabha (Regd.) and a member of Loktantra Senani Sangh Punjab, has submitted a memorandum demanding national recognition and long-pending benefits for Emergency-era detainees. The memorandum was handed over to Deputy Commissioner Amritpreet Kaur and SDM Krishna Pal Rajput in Abohar.
Gupta, whose family includes the late Prahlad Rai Gupta—an Emergency-era warrior from Abohar—has urged the central government to declare those jailed during the 1975–77 Emergency as ‘Loktantra Senanis’ under the Freedom Fighter Act and to issue them copper plaques as a mark of honour. He also requested the release of pending pensions for the last four months.
Gupta highlighted that while other states have implemented various benefits for Emergency-era detainees, Punjab continues to face central apathy. He criticized the BJP-led government for ignoring these patriots except during elections when they are honored with garlands and party scarves. He argued that recognition should come through official channels, not political gimmicks. He questioned why the BJP continues to criticize Congress over the Emergency when it has not done justice to those who resisted it. Letters on this matter were earlier sent to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria, and Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann. Gupta firmly urged the Centre to act on this long-pending demand.